The Old Red Bus Station

If you want a venue which has it all, The Old Red Bus Station is it. Far removed from its past life as a Leeds Bus Station, today Old Red boasts an eclectic resumé. This industrial-chic bar utilises its multiple dance floors as a live music venue, offers vegan comfort food from Cantina, and also functions as an artistic gallery space. It is no surprise that it has become a favourite hotspot for creatives in Leeds. 

Created first and foremost as a space for artists to showcase their work free of charge, be that in groups or as a solo exhibit, The Old Red Bus Station team works closely with creators to provide promotional, curatorial and marketing assistance when needed. That’s not all it does, either. As well as showcasing the work of local talents on its walls, it also hosts a creative programme of events such as its popular ‘drink and draw’ nights,  as well as open calls, competitions and various networking opportunities – bringing like minded creatives together in a new way. 

It’s also home to Cantina, a casual junk food vegan restaurant serving up redesigned favourites with a plant powered twist.  With sharing combos priced from just £22 between two, you can dig into the likes of crispy onion rings, smacked cucumbers, cauliflower bites and popcorn seitan, plus loaded fries with chip shop curry sauce and barely see a dent in your wallet. There’s a whole list of bar bites available, too, plus dirty burgers, loaded fries, ‘munch boxes’ and, significantly, deep fried pickles on the sides list. As for sweet tooths? Choose from the famous house deep fried Oreos, or go for one of their expertly baked weekly-changing cakes.   

There’s more to see here, too. Make sure to browse their shop for merch and prints – visible proof that you, too, know the local favourite. After all, how else is anyone going to find out? 

Also available for private club hire, the two room venue at The Old Red Bus Station can be booked on selected dates with a late license and room for up to 250 guests. So, if you’re looking for somewhere quirky and cool to throw a special event, make sure to give it a look in.